Broken Silence: A Secret Life of Abuse chronicles the life of Nesa Chappelle, Ph.D., who experienced abuse, beginning in childhood, from people in her life who were supposed to love her, including her mother, her stepfather, and her husbands.

Her mother and father were never married. Her mother, who was cold and distant toward Nesa, suffered physical abuse from her husband. Other female relatives suffered physical and/or emotional abuse from the men in their lives. Nesa's
father, a hustler, enjoyed the good life - fancy cars, fine clothes, and pretty women - but he emotionally abused those women. Growing up in this life not only triggered her quest as a young adult for "a good husband," but also instilled in her a thirst for knowledge and success.

Nesa wanted the good life, so she pursued education - a bachelor's degree, a
master's degree, and a Ph.D. - which enabled her to land well-paying
professional positions and to live an upper-middle-class lifestyle. To her
colleagues, she had it all. Only a few close friends and relatives knew about her secret life: A pattern of entering into relationships and marriages to men who abused her mentally, physically, and/or emotionally.

After enduring nearly two years of mental and emotional abuse in her marriage to
husband number six, her life turned a corner. Nesa found God, sought domestic
abuse counseling, and decided to write this book. The healing has begun.

About the Author
Nesa Chappelle, Ph.D., is a feminist scholar who is dedicated to influencing social and political policy that affects black and Hispanic women and victims of
domestic violence.

Chappelle holds a bachelor's degree in Spanish language and business education from the University of the District of Columbia, a master's degree in multicultural education from George Mason University, and a doctoral
degree in political science, public administration, and education administration and supervision from Howard University.